Programs

The FOJC and the Academy’s Jewish Chaplain work closely with the Jewish Midshipmen to formulate and execute a series of precedent-setting programs designed to meet the needs of the Academy’s Jewish community and for Midshipmen of all faith groups. To support ongoing programming the FOJC created an endowment to provide necessary funding.

the list of programs includes:

JOURNEY TO ISRAEL:

The FOJC provides financial support for this annual Spring break trip to Israel. The Midshipmen meet with Israeli military personnel and dignitaries. All Midshipmen, regardless of religious affiliation, can apply to be considered for this experience.

UNITED STATES HOLOCAUST MEMORIAL MUSEUM:

The success of what was originally an FOJC-sponsored program has prompted the Naval Academy to now include this annual, in-depth visit to the United States Holocaust Memorial Museum in Washington, DC, as part of every USNA Midshipman’s education.

SPEAKERS PROGRAM:

Features world leaders in education, politics and religion. To date, the program has hosted Academy Award winner Steven Spielberg, Holocaust survivor Gerda Weissmann Klein, Stuart Eiszenstat, the world-renown Dreyfus Exhibit provided by Lorraine Beitler and other experts among the world’s Jewish community.

JEWISH STUDIES:

Jewish Midshipmen are invited to participate in Hebrew classes, Torah study and discussion groups on Jewish ethics and values, and American Jewish history. Intercollegiate programs are also offered with Jewish men and women from other colleges in the greater Baltimore-Washington area.

JEWISH SERVICES AND PROGRAMS

The observance of Shabbat, the High Holy Days, Passover, and other Jewish holidays are part of the Jewish Command Religious Program. FOJC enhances the services by providing Oneg Shabbats, holiday meals and other support as needed.

Music and life-cycle events are some of the continuing projects that the Friends of the Jewish Chapel support.

For Shabbat or holiday service times, please call the FOJC office at 410-268-0169.